student/intern Poetry and Literature Center Volunteer Internship Program

  • General Website: http://www.loc.gov/poetry/
  • Hosting Service Unit: National & International Outreach
  • Program Contact: [email protected]
  • Interests/Areas of Study: Humanities, Art and Culture; Literature; Poetry
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen
  • Application Period: Ongoing
  • Application Notes: Apply at least 1-2 months in advance of tentative start date. Please email cover letter and current resume to the above email addresses.
  • Compensation: Non-paid
  • Academic Credit: The Library does not provide academic credit, but you may arrange with your school in advance to receive credit.
  • Available Benefits: LC Internal Discounts
  • Program Duration: Long-term. Academic year - 8-16 hrs a week w/a flexible schedule; Summer: – 20 hrs a week w/a flexible schedule
  • Qualifications: Currently Enrolled Students (Undergraduate/Graduate); Graduate students preferred, but not required.
  • Frequently Asked Questions

The Poetry and Literature Center Volunteer Internship Program is designed for individuals who are studying English or Creative Writing, and is intended to offer training for those looking to have a career in arts administration and public programming. Interns will assist with the Poetry and Literature Center's public programs, contribute to its special and ongoing projects, and assist the office in its day-to-day activities. The Library benefits by having assistance in the Poetry and Literature Center office and by further connecting to the local literary community. If accepted, PLC interns commit to working at least eight hours per week, including assisting with evening programs.  

The PLC is awash with great programs! Interns assist with maintenance of digital projects, including the Archive of Recorded Poetry and Literature (ARPL), Poetry of America, and the Poetry and Literature Center’s pilot podcast series. They also help facilitate public programming, especially day of coordination. These events include high profile authors like the US Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry and others. For students wanting careers in literary public programming this experience is invaluable.